UAPB Builds $33 Million Student Engagement Center

center a Outcomes of a shared vision

On Friday, December 16, leaders of the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff (UAPB) and the University of Arkansas System hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the university’s new Student Participation Center. $33 million, approximately 62,000 square feet. The ft. Center serves as a hub for campus and community health education and engagement, student health and wellness, assessment and counseling. President Lawrence B. Alexander, President Donald R. Bobbitt of the University of Arkansas System, Vice President of Finance and Administration Carla Martin, Vice President of Student Affairs Elbert Bennett, Vice President of Student Government Trenton Wills, Graduate Student Manoja Reddy, Title III Director Dr. Margaret Martin-Hall and University of Arkansas Board of Trustees member Col. Nathaniel Todd, veteran, performed the ceremonial groundbreaking with a gold shovel. You can watch the event at YouTube.com/UAPBTelevision.

In his speech, Rector Alexander led the audience in applauding the students and student leaders in attendance. [students passed] A referendum was held to charge the fee, which was later approved by the Board of Trustees. I would like to acknowledge the important role they have played in realizing this vision. ”

Vice Chancellor Bennett strengthens our organization by embracing the unique diversity of our UAPB community, wearing a t-shirt developed by our students for their referendum campaign. ”

When complete, the Student Engagement Center (rendered below) will house:

• Student Success Center
• carrier service
• international program
• Preparing for Graduate and Vocational Schools
• Student Health Services and Counseling Center
• Open multipurpose/conference room
• 2 food vendor areas with seating
• Wellness center with indoor walking/running track
• 4 lane bowling alley
• Recreation area with pool table, ping pong table and games table
• 1,200 seat theater
• Open seats for study and gathering

In keeping with UAPB’s land grant mission, the Student Engagement Center provides outreach services to the Arkansas Delta region through sponsorship of community health fairs and other events to inform communities about public health issues. increase.

“The center addresses the critical needs of the university and the surrounding community by integrating community health information into comprehensive health and wellness services for students,” said Chancellor Alexander.

Wills, a junior agricultural business major, said the center “will enhance student ability, talent, and success. It marks a turning point for the university in strengthening The Pride.” Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

During his presidency, Dr. Martin called for progress on Pride Day today, noting that this flagship project is one of many visible construction and rehabilitation projects taking place around campus. Other projects include: A major upgrade to the interior of the LA Davis Student Union. Renovation of Larson Hall for faculty research and expansion work throughout Arkansas. Construction of new student residences to meet increased demand for on-campus housing for the first time since 2017.

“We are going through a renaissance in many ways, and this renaissance is happening in the education our students are receiving and in our buildings and facilities,” said Chancellor Alexander.

“We hope that students will see the Freshman Engagement Center as a symbol of perseverance,” said Vice Chancellor Bennett. We can’t stop working to create a better UAPB for our Golden Lions.”